Industrial hygienists monitor and analyze workplace environments to prevent health hazards and keep workers healthy. They work with company leaders to address health issues and may also scan the workplace for stress-producing environments. A bachelor’s degree in science or engineering is preferred for this position.
An industrial hygienist keeps workplaces, specifically industrial and manufacturing plants, free of health and safety hazards. Unlike an equipment and machinery inspector, she monitors the site environment. This includes analyzing air and water quality and measuring noise levels to ensure they do not exceed decibel limits. In some locations, radiation levels must also be measured for compliance.
The goal of an industrial hygienist, also called an industrial hygiene chemist, is to prevent health hazards and keep workers healthy. It studies all aspects of the environment and looks at present and potential threats to health. After compiling a list of concerns and recommended solutions, she presents her findings to the operations manager or other person responsible for the company’s physical condition.
Industrial operations are more likely to present health risks related to noise pollution generated by heavy machinery and equipment. These types of plants are also prone to having dangerous levels of hazardous materials in the air. This often includes chemicals, fumes, and metal shavings. High levels of fine glass particles and dust are also regularly found in these environments.
Industrial hygienists work with administrative personnel and labor organizations to address health issues. They keep company leaders informed of local, regional and national rules and regulations and recommend compliance alternatives. To raise employee awareness, an industrial hygienist may post communications about hazardous materials. She can install informational software on company computers to educate workers and inspire productive discussions about preventive measures.
In addition to exploring physical threats to employees’ well-being, an industrial hygienist scans the workplace for stress-producing environments. Because some studies have shown that stress causes mental and physical illness, these areas can be just as toxic to employee health as airborne contaminants. Unfortunately, relieving stressful environments is much more challenging than cleaning the air.
Large companies may employ full-time industrial hygienists, but hygienists are more likely to be employed by consulting firms, public health groups or insurance companies. Some of these professionals spend most of their time performing tests in hazardous materials laboratories. They also conduct regular reviews of the reliability of health-related equipment such as defibrillators, respirators and pacemakers.
A bachelor’s degree in science or engineering is preferred for this position, although some companies require a master’s degree. Some colleges and universities also offer special programs for this profession. It is also quite common for medical professionals such as doctors and nurses to transition into this career. People working in the fields of toxicology, statistics, chemistry and engineering are also good candidates for positions in industrial hygiene.
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